Retirement and fostering: How can you help?

Retirement can be a fulfilling time to explore new interests and activities, including the possibility of becoming a foster carer. So, how can you help?

As a retiree, you will have wisdom and knowledge that will be extremely beneficial in your new role. There is no upper age limit to become a foster carer, if you are fit and healthy you can make a life changing difference to children and young people in your local area.

Here are some reasons why fostering is great for retirees:

Make a real difference:

Becoming a foster carer gives you an opportunity to make a real, life-changing difference to children and young people in your local area. Children come into care for a variety of different reasons such as abuse and/or neglect.

The joy of nurturing a foster child and seeing their growth is extremely fulfilling, especially if you are an empty nester or don't have children of your own. Becoming a foster carer as a retiree enables you to have a long-lasting impact on a child's future.

Build on your skills:

Fostering is a great way of using your transferable skills and learning new ones. For example, if you have a background working with troubled individuals or in crisis management, you can use those valuable skills as an emergency foster carer. You'll also have the ability to regularly learn new skills through our in-depth training provided to our foster carers. No two children are the same, and you'll notice how the skills you've gained will help you in your new role as a foster carer with Family Care.

Your home will be full of fun and activities:

If you don't like the idea of your home being quiet in your retirement, then fostering can definitely bring lots of activity and fun into your home. As a foster carer, you will find that no two days are the same, and there will be lots of things going on that will keep you busy and active. Your dedication to the children in your care will help to heal from their past and grow as an individual.

Can foster carers claim pension credit whilst fostering?

Yes, the good news is that Family Care's competitive fostering allowance will not stop you from claiming your pension.

For a state pension, you can claim this and foster if you are over the state pension age of 66 years old.

You can also do the same with a private pension, if you have reached the age agreed in your provider beforehand. You might also be eligible for various benefits, including pension credit, as your allowance is not considered income.

What other support is available for Family Care's foster carers?

Although fostering can be extremely rewarding and fulfilling, it can come with its difficulties at times. At Family Care, we take pride in the support we offer to our foster carers/fostering families. This includes:

• 24/7 support from professionals
• Dedicated Supervising Social Worker
• Access to in-house therapists
• Support groups with fellow foster carers
• Foster carer reps
• Regular in depth training
• Support services team

Could You Be a Foster Parent?

The shortage of foster carers in the UK greatly affects vulnerable children.

This can result in children being placed far from their loved ones and being separated from their siblings, as well as their school and friends.

Did you know that historically, 70-80% of foster placements have been within 20 miles of the child's home? While this benefits many children who can maintain their school and friendship groups, it also means that 20-30% of placements are further away.

For children coming to live with our foster families at an average age of 10, a change of school is often inevitable. However, we are dedicated to finding families in local areas with high demand to minimise disruptions.

If you live in the Northwest or the Midlands and are interested in exploring becoming a foster carer, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Read about our application process here.

Get in touch with us by completing our short enquiry form online or call us at 0800 5 677677.

There is no obligation for anything more than a chat.

Start Your Fostering Journey Today

Embarking on the journey of fostering is a significant decision that can profoundly impact your family and the life of a young person in need. By preparing yourself, choosing the right time and place for conversations, and approaching the topic with openness and honesty, you can foster a supportive and understanding environment.

Addressing concerns, sharing resources, seeking professional guidance when needed, and showing patience and understanding are essential steps in navigating this process together. Family Care understands the importance of support for foster carers and is committed to providing the necessary assistance throughout this incredible journey.

With our dedicated team by your side, you can begin this fulfilling experience knowing that help and guidance are just a call away. Together, you can make a positive difference in a child's life, creating a loving and nurturing home that will leave a lasting impact.